LATE 18TH/EARLY 19TH CENTURY

This unusual carpet was most likely woven in Spain or possibly in Portugal. However, no direct comparable could be found. Many of the motifs used in this carpet are reminiscent of Spanish Admiral Carpets from the 15th century (see E. Kühnel, The Textile Museum: Catalogue of Spanish Rugs, Washington, D. C., 1953, pl. 4). There is a clear influence of motifs especially the bull-like animals and concentric stars in the inner border and the various decorative motifs enclosed in octagons in the middle border.

The inscription 'Baldivia' is also curious. It is a common surname in Spain and South America but is also the name of a port city in Chile. It is possible that it was either commissioned by someone with the name Baldivia or made as a commemorative piece for the city of Baldivia. Because the carpet is reduced in width it is also possible that part of a longer inscription is missing.